Elegant Open Shell Stitch Crochet Pattern for Any Project
Find beauty and ease with this free crochet open shell stitch pattern for stylish shawls, blankets and pretty accessories loved by everyone.
Gentle loops and wide arches move across rows like tiny waves in yarn, bringing beauty and lightness to anything you make. The Crochet Open Shell Stitch pattern shines with a look that seems almost like lace, perfect for shawls, light blankets, or dressy scarves. Each row builds on the last with simple moves, making this pattern easy to remember and calming to repeat. The spaces let air flow, so finished pieces stay breezy and comfortable—a good pick for warm days or cozy layers.
Free Pattern for Crochet Open Shell Stitch
This stitch’s style adds charm to home decorations, such as table runners or cushions, and makes thoughtful gifts that feel personal and special. Mixing colors or using your favorite yarn can turn every project into something unique. With a pattern so easy to follow, anyone’s hands can bring beauty and joy into their home. The Crochet Open Shell Stitch pattern brings warmth and style with every touch.
Openwork Fan Stitch Crochet Pattern
Materials
- Yarn: Any smooth, medium weight yarn of your choice (sample yarn was not specified; use what works best for your swatch)
- Hook: 4.0 mm crochet hook (or size recommended by your yarn label)
- Yarn needle: For sewing in ends
- Scissors
- Measuring tape (optional, for checking gauge and dimensions)
- Stitch markers (optional, if using for a garment)
Key Abbreviations (US Terms)
- ch = chain
- sc = single crochet
- dc = double crochet
- st(s) = stitch(es)
- rep = repeat
- sk = skip
- sp = space
- beg = beginning
Special Notes
- Pattern is a 2-row repeat and the design uses multiple of 14 + 5 chains for the foundation.
- Ideal for adding openwork detail to garments, bags, or any project that benefits from a defined right/wrong side.
- Pattern instructions include set-up and final/top edge for neat finishing.
- Adjust hook size and yarn weight to achieve desired drape and openness.
Pattern
Foundation
- Ch a multiple of 14, plus 5.
(E.g., for a sample: ch 33.)
Row 1 (Foundation):
- Dc in the 4th ch from hook (first 3 ch count as dc).
- Dc in each ch across.
- Turn.
Row 2 (Set-up Pattern):
- Ch 3 (counts as dc), ch 1, sk 1 st, dc in next st,
- Ch 4, sk 5 sts, dc in next st, [ch 2, dc in next st] 3 times,
(You will have 4 dc in total, each separated by ch-2.) - Ch 4, sk 5 sts, dc in next st, ch 1, sk 1 st, dc in next st.
- Rep sequence as needed to end, finishing with dc, ch 1, sk 1 st, dc in final st.
- Turn.
Row 3 (Fan Section):
- Ch 4 (counts as dc and ch-1), sk 1 dc, dc in next dc,
- Ch 2, sk 1, sc in next st (or in the ch-sp as fits pattern), ch 2, dc in next dc (or into top of dc),
- In the next ch-2 sp: 3 dc into ch-2 sp, dc in next dc,
Into next ch-2 sp: (dc, ch 2, dc),
dc in next dc, into next ch-2 sp: 3 dc, dc in next dc, - Continue working the fans as established,
- For section breaks: Ch 2, sk 2, sc in next ch, ch 2, dc in next dc,
- Continue until end of row.
- Turn.
Main Pattern Repeat (Rows 2 & 3):
Repeat Rows 2 and 3 for as many pattern repeats as you wish.
Ending Row (Last Fan Row, for Neat Edge)
- Work Row 2 as written but replace ch-4 with ch-5 between fan sections (this gives a straighter top edge).
- At section ends, use sc in the ch-2 sp, then ch 5, move to the next section and repeat the motif.
- Finish as for standard row: dc, ch 1, dc (as you did for your foundation row).
Final Top Edge (For Garment/Finishing)
- Ch 3 (counts as dc),
- Dc in next st,
- Dc in each ch (across ch-5 sections work 1 dc into each ch, giving you 5 dc per section),
- Dc in each dc,
- Be sure the number of dc in this row matches the base (Row 1) count.
Fasten Off & Finishing
- Cut yarn, draw through last loop, tighten gently.
- Weave in all ends with yarn needle.
- Block lightly if desired to open the stitch pattern.
Conclusion
This fan openwork crochet stitch creates a beautiful, decorative fabric with strong geometrical motifs and a clear right and wrong side. Excellent for garments, panels, bags, and inserts where a stable, visually striking openwork is desired.
Pattern Corrections & Tips
- Multiples: Be sure to use a starting chain in multiples of 14 plus 5 for pattern integrity.
- Edge Consistency: Always begin and end rows as instructed for straight, even edges.
- Stitch Placement: Work into “chain spaces” (not just top of stitches) for more balanced and open fans.
- Customization: Adjust hook or yarn for airier or denser effect, and always make a swatch first—alter foundation chain to fit project requirements.
- Finishing: Use a border row of dc for a defined, strong edge (especially before joining into a garment or inserting into a larger item).
- Right/Wrong Side: This stitch has a definite front (RS) and back (WS), so plan accordingly.
